Feb 23 2005

DOS and DHS Have Improved Process for Visas Mantis Clearances

The Departments of State (DOS) and Homeland Security (DHS) have issued a joint announcement regarding improved visa processing for international visitors. The two departments have worked closely over the past two years to create policies that, at the same time, ensure national security and welcome international visitors. Certain policies implemented have resulted in a significant reduction in processing times for work and study visas in certain scientific or technical fields in the U.S. Both departments have worked diligently to improve the clearance process for the Visas Mantis program over the past year. These efforts have been validated by the Government Accountability Office, which has stated that changes have led to significant declines in processing times for Visas Mantis clearances. Today, processing of Visas Mantis averages less than two weeks. In addition, the departments have extended the validity period for Visas Mantis clearances, which have reduced the amount of times a person must submit these clearance forms.